Senior Nucleic Acid Research Associate (mRNA Analytics)

BioSpace; Cambridge (MA); On-site; USD 74,000 - 118,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive healthcare

Well-being resources

Family planning benefits

Generous paid time off

Equity/incentives

Job summary

Moderna is seeking a Scientist to execute molecular biology workflows for nucleic acids, including synthesis, purification, and characterization to support multiple research programs. You will analyze data, troubleshoot challenges, and help improve lab methods in a fast-paced setting.

You will work closely with scientists and cross-functional partners, gaining increasing independence as expertise grows, while maintaining rigorous scientific standards and safe operations on-site at Moderna.

Qualifications

• B.S. and/or MS in Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, Bioanalytical Sciences, Biomedical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Biology, Chemistry or related field with 2–5+ years for B.S.; 0–3+ years for Master’s.
• Hands-on experience with molecular biology techniques such as PCR, IVT, or related enzymatic workflows.
• Experience with nucleic acid purification and characterization using chromatographic and analytical techniques.
• Demonstrated ability to independently execute laboratory experiments, analyze data, and maintain accurate scientific documentation.
• Strong attention to detail with excellent organizational, interpersonal, and communication skills.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced research environment.
• Site-based role requiring full-time presence at Moderna’s site; no remote work.

Responsibilities

• Perform nucleic acid synthesis, purification, and characterization using molecular biology, chromatographic, and analytical techniques.
• Independently execute laboratory experiments while adapting established protocols to project-specific requirements.
• Analyze, interpret, and document experimental data per lab procedures.
• Troubleshoot laboratory workflows and contribute to process and method improvements.
• Support implementation and optimization of new laboratory methods and technologies.
• Train and mentor junior researchers and contribute to a collaborative lab culture.
• Maintain equipment and support general lab operations while ensuring safety and documentation standards.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to support multiple research programs.
• Demonstrate accountability, scientific curiosity, and flexibility while managing multiple priorities.

Skills

Molecular biology execution

Analytical problem solving

Independent work

Attention to detail

Cross-functional collaboration

Education

B.S./M.S. in Biochemistry or Molecular Biology or related

Tools

PCR

IVT

HPLC

LC-MS

Capillary electrophoresis

Fragment Analyzer

Job description

Moderna is seeking a Scientist to execute molecular biology workflows for nucleic acids, including synthesis, purification, and characterization to support multiple research programs. You will analyze data, troubleshoot challenges, and help improve lab methods in a fast-paced setting.

You will work closely with scientists and cross-functional partners, gaining increasing independence as expertise grows, while maintaining rigorous scientific standards and safe operations on-site at Moderna.